Timber Rattlesnake Traditional Cache

Timber Rattlesnake,  Crotalus Horridus

Habitat:  Timber rattlesnakes can typically be found in oak woodlands in relatively remote areas. They prefer rocky outcrops and open grassy areas with southerly exposures in the spring and fall. During the summer, they inhabit deciduous forests and open valleys. Rock fissures and crevices provide dens for overwintering. They do not travel large distances and remain near their dens.  Rodents, rabbits, squirrels, birds, lizards, frogs, and other snakes are all food sources for the Timber Rattler.  Natural predators include hawks, bobcats, coyotes, skunks, and snake-eating snakes like the Cottonmouth and kingsnakes. As a result of habitat loss and eradication by humans, the Timber Rattesnake population is becoming smaller.

Please use caution when you are hiking in the woods and watch where you place you hands and feet, especially around rock ledges.  Timber Rattlesnakes are not seen often in Bernheim but they are here.  On September 25, 2008 Jeepstaff had a very close call and came within a few feet of a Timber Rattler while hiking in this very area of the Millennium trail.